Simon's Story

Amid the lively bustle of P3’s weekly wellbeing craft group, delivered by the BeWell service every Wednesday, Simon shared how support, connection and creativity have played a vital role in his wellbeing and why this group has become such an important part of his week.

Starting with his support plan, Simon says, “I have my sessions on a Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Before [the craft group], we’d go out somewhere for a coffee or something [to try and keep busy], and then once I started attending the craft group it gave me a day each week where I’m doing something.”

Simon talks about how the main goal of his support is to reduce his isolation, he feels that through being sociable he is able to be the best version of himself. About the craft group, he says, “It’s interactive with other people, that’s the best bit about it.

“I’ve been going for a long time now, and I really enjoy it. I will always come to this group, and I’ve made loads of things so far. It’s nice just to sit here and take part in whatever you want to do and just listen to people talking. I’m quite happy with that.”

“I go to the Chill and Chat Group every Friday, which is actually in the same room as this group [and also ran by P3].

“These groups have given me motivation to get up and function, knowing the support workers are coming gives me something to get up for. The support has really helped me build up my independence; I’m living on my own now.

“[The team] are straight there to help me with forms or anything that I need to live on my own, they always help me out. It’s a balance between [practical] and wellbeing.”

As well as socialising, the community groups Simon attends have helped him build up his confidence and independent living skills. He reflects on feeling grateful that his support workers encouraged him to take part in more things.

Simon’s advice to people who are feeling anxious about attending the craft group: “You don’t know unless you’ve tried it. If you try it, you can choose then whether you like it or not.”

To find out more about BeWell’s Community support, or to read about the craft group click the buttons below.